The holiday season is a magical time for many Florida families. From stringing lights on palm trees to adorning living rooms with festive decorations, the joy of the season often starts with beautiful holiday decor. However, with all the excitement comes risk—storms, fires, or theft can cause unexpected damage. Protecting your cherished decorations with the right homeowners insurance is an essential part of enjoying a worry-free holiday season.
What Does Home Insurance Cover for Holiday Decor?
Many homeowners don’t realize that their holiday decorations are included under their standard home insurance policy. While coverage varies, here are some key points:
Here’s how:
- Theft or Damage: If someone steals your holiday decor or damages it, your insurance may cover the loss.
- Accidental Damage: Accidents while putting up or taking down decorations might also be covered.
- Fire Hazards: Faulty holiday lights or candles causing fires can result in coverage for property damage.
Holiday-Specific Coverage Options
If you’ve invested in high-value decorations or rare ornaments, you might want to consider additional coverage. Options include:
- Special Endorsements: These add extra protection for unique or expensive items like antique ornaments or elaborate outdoor setups.
- Temporary Coverage: During the holidays, some policies offer increased limits for personal property, which can help protect seasonal items.
- Natural Disaster Protection: Hurricanes and floods can wreak havoc on outdoor decorations. Check your policy to ensure adequate protection for these risks.
Tips for Preventing Damage to Holiday Decor
Even with insurance, prevention is always better than filing a claim. Here are some safety tips:
- Inspect Lights and Cords: Look for frayed wires or broken bulbs before hanging lights.
- Secure Outdoor Decorations: Use sturdy fasteners to keep decorations safe from high winds.
- Practice Fire Safety: Keep candles away from flammable items and water your Christmas tree regularly to prevent it from becoming a fire hazard.
When to File a Claim for Damaged Holiday Decor
If damage occurs:
- Document the damage with photos.
- Contact your insurance provider to report the incident.
- Understand your deductible and how filing a claim may impact your premiums.
By knowing what’s covered and taking a few preventative measures, you can focus on the joy of the season without worrying about your decor.
Elite Insurance Solutions services Tampa Bay, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Land O’ Lakes, and the surrounding area. Our office is able to serve all Florida residents with their homeowners insurance needs.